2008 Ford Explorer vs. 2004 Ford Focus

To start off, 2008 Ford Explorer is newer by 4 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2004 Ford Focus. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2004 Ford Focus would be higher. At 4,013 cc (6 cylinders), 2008 Ford Explorer is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Ford Explorer (210 HP @ 5100 RPM) has 82 more horse power than 2004 Ford Focus. (128 HP @ 5700 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Ford Explorer should accelerate faster than 2004 Ford Focus. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Ford Explorer weights approximately 811 kg more than 2004 Ford Focus. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.

Because 2008 Ford Explorer is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 2008 Ford Explorer. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2004 Ford Focus, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. With that said, do keep in mind that many other factors such as speed and the wear on your tires can also have significant impact on traction and control. Let's talk about torque, 2008 Ford Explorer (344 Nm @ 3700 RPM) has 166 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Ford Focus. (178 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2008 Ford Explorer will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Ford Focus. 2008 Ford Explorer has automatic transmission and 2004 Ford Focus has manual transmission. 2004 Ford Focus will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2008 Ford Explorer will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.

Compare all specifications:

2008 Ford Explorer 2004 Ford Focus
Make Ford Ford
Model Explorer Focus
Year Released 2008 2004
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 4013 cc 1988 cc
Engine Cylinders 6 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type V in-line
Valves per Cylinder 4 valves 4 valves
Horse Power 210 HP 128 HP
Engine RPM 5100 RPM 5700 RPM
Torque 344 Nm 178 Nm
Torque RPM 3700 RPM 4500 RPM
Engine Compression Ratio 9.7:1 10.0:1
Fuel Type Gasoline Gasoline - Premium
Drive Type Rear Front
Transmission Type Automatic Manual
Number of Seats 5 seats 5 seats
Number of Doors 5 doors 5 doors
Vehicle Weight 2077 kg 1266 kg
Vehicle Length 5350 mm 4470 mm
Vehicle Width 1880 mm 1710 mm
Vehicle Height 1850 mm 1540 mm
Wheelbase Size 3320 mm 2630 mm
Fuel Consumption Overall 14.7 L/100km 8.7 L/100km
Fuel Tank Capacity 85 L 55 L